Richard Robert Leach… known affectionately to many of us as Rich, or Richie … died peacefully at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, in Toronto, on Monday, August 10th, 2026 after a tough and courageous battle with cancer.
Rich was born in June of 1961 to the late Robert (Bob) and Marilyn (Fox) Leach. Beloved Daddy to Molly Benoit-Leach and fun Grandpa to Iktan. Brother of Lisa Laflamme and Geoffrey Leach. The best of friend of Gary Chamberlin. Fondly remembered and appreciated by Molly’s older siblings Jenilee, Jesse, and Dayle who knew him since they were very young. Caring nephew of Uncle Doug Butzer, and never forgotten by his caring aunts Nancy and Annemarie. Loved by cousins and a friend of many, including a friend of Bill’s…
Rich lived life intensely. He welcomed every new experience and made friends wherever he went. A gentle, caring man who owned his choices and learned to “accept what I cannot change.” Rich did not want to leave this life and had many adventures left to live. He enjoyed being a good friend, daddio, grandfather, world traveler, drummer, and music lover.
In honour of Rich, please live your life authentically and to its fullest. A graveside gathering of Rich’s friends and family will take place in Wallaceburg the last week of August 2026 with a celebration of life to follow. The day and time will be announced.
To celebrate Rich, please consider playing some vinyl while listening to favourites of R.E.M., X.T.C., Tom Waits, Jeff Buckley, Neil Young, the Beatles or Carole King.
Hug your grandchildren, family, and friends close. If you feel inspired to do so, please consider writing a story about Rich to share with his young grandson, Iktan, via his daughter Molly. Cremation has taken place and Rich will be buried with his parents in Riverview Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, your donations to Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation are welcomed.
Online tributes may be left at www.CavanaghFuneralHome.ca.
